Jill Hauenstein

Jill Hauenstein, cherished daughter of David Koebler and Carol Schantz, beloved wife to Timothy Hauenstein, and adored sister to Michael and Emily, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2024. Jill's life was one of profound dedication and passion, marked by her unwavering commitment to education and her boundless love for literature. She graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a testament to her lifelong devotion to nurturing young minds. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a master's degree in Reading from Northern Arizona University, where she honed her skills as an educator. An esteemed educator, Jill's impact extended beyond the classroom. She served as a Reading Specialist at the Franklin Regional School District, where her expertise and dedication transformed the lives of countless students. Prior, Jill held positions as a 5th-grade and 9th-grade teacher at Lebanon School District, where she instilled a love for learning in her students through her innovative teaching methods and compassionate guidance. Additionally, she was the anchor of H2E 5th grade at Oro Grande Elementary in Lake Havasu City, where her vibrant energy and unwavering support created a nurturing environment for her students to thrive. Twice certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in reading, she inspired countless students to discover the joy of literacy. Her influence extended to Carlow University, where she served as an adjunct professor, shaping the next generation of educators with her wisdom and passion. Beyond her professional pursuits, Jill was a voracious reader who liked mysteries, particularly those adorned with cats and cupcakes on their covers. Her favorite authors, including Louise Penny, filled her life with intrigue and delight. Jill's adventurous spirit found expression in her love for travel, with cherished memories of hiking in Zion during Thanksgiving, embracing the serene lake life in Maine, and reveling in the vibrant energy of Mardi Gras in New Orleans on her last journey. Her zest for life and exploration knew no bounds. Her compassion extended beyond humans to the animal kingdom, particularly her beloved dogs. As a Therapy Dog Handler, Jill brought comfort and joy to countless individuals, embodying the true spirit of empathy and kindness. Jill Hauenstein's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her legacy of love, learning, and adventure will continue to inspire generations to come. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by her family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to https://thon.org/ or https://swissvalelibrary.org/support/ in Jill's memory, continuing her legacy of compassion and service to others. A celebration of Jill's life will be held on April 18 from 4:30-6:30 followed by a service at 6:35 at Corl Funeral Chapel at 4335 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA. All who knew and loved her are invited to honor her memory and share stories of her remarkable life.